5 Must-Visit Hidden Bars in Brooklyn
It's hard to call a space a "speakeasy" when just about every other bar in Williamsburg purports to be inspired by them, but we've put together a collection of five of the best unmarked, unnamed and unlisted spaces in Brooklyn. What are your favorites? Let us know other secret Brooklyn bars on Facebook or Twitter.
Gemini & Scorpio Loft: This loft is part event space, part planning ground for the company's events in Gowanus. The bar serves standard fare but the parties and speakers — such as John Law, who has scaled every major bridge in New York — are anything but. Plus, you can only get the address by signing up online, and then you're asked not to post it publicly. Hard to get more secret than that.
No Name Bar: There is no sign, but this bar in Greenpoint is usually easy to spot by the posse of smokers outside. The bar is solid and offers a wide-variety of beers and familiar — but not too familiar — cocktails. However, the real hidden appeal here is the Thai food, cooked in the basement — you don't even have to say "Thai spicy" to get the whole pepper (597 Manhattan Ave.; no phone).
Gotham City Lounge: While it's not exactly hidden or unknown (for example, Cass Bird shot a video for Vogue in the space), this comic-themed bar is definitely hard to find for first-timers. Look just below the M train tracks at Myrtle Ave and Cedar Strett, and give a buzz to be let into the cozy space (1293 Myrtle Ave.; 718-387-4182).
Larry Lawrence: This above-street-level bar requires knowing where you're going in order to be found. The space inside is quiet enough to have a conversation but not prohibitive of groups. Plus, that balcony! Once you visit, you'll wonder why the crowds aren't lined up outside (295 Grand St.; 718-218-7866).
Black Mountain Winehouse: It doesn't take a super-sleuth to figure out that people with beers in lounge chairs outside spells a good time; however, this homey spot with a facade like a log cabin doesn't bark "Bar!" at you on the street. It's worth seeking out (415 Union St.; 718-522-4340).
Photo: Gemini & Scorpio by Marta Monko
